Bombardier and Air Côte d’Ivoire sign agreement for up to four Q400 NextGen aircraft

Bombardier Aerospace announced that Abidjan-based Air Côte d’Ivoire, the national airline of the Invory Coast, has signed a conditional purchase agreement for two Q400 NextGen aircraft with options for an additional two Q400 NextGen aircraft.

Based on list price, the contract value for two firm-ordered Q400 NextGen aircraft would be approximately $69 million US. Should the two options be converted to firm orders, the contract value would increase to $141 million US.

René Decurey, Chief Executive Officer, Air Côte d’Ivoire said:

“The dual-class-configured Q400 NextGen aircraft is ideally suited for our market; it will support passengers’ requirements and integrate well into our fleet. We will capitalize on the Q400 NextGen aircraft’s outstanding performance — including its high speed and long-range cruise capability – as we look to modernize our fleet and expand our domestic and regional route network. Additionally, in West Africa, where average fuel prices are among the highest in the world and the highest on the continent, the fast, fuel-efficient Q400 NextGen turboprop airliner is the most cost effective and flexible regional aircraft solution for our operations.”

Mike Arcamone, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft said:

“We are proud that Bombardier is contributing to the growth strategy of Air Côte d’Ivoire, and that the carrier could potentially double the size of its current fleet with Q400 NextGen aircraft as it further develops its network of short- and medium-haul destinations. The Q400 NextGen aircraft is performing superbly in diverse environments around the world with some 50 customers and operators, and we are delighted to welcome Air Côte d’Ivoire to our family. Bombardier Commercial Aircraft continues to perform well in Africa, where we have captured 100 per cent market share over more than two years in the large turboprop segment.”